South Sudan Ramps Up Oil Production as Prices Surge Above $100 Per Barrel
The Ministry of Petroleum has intensified efforts to boost oil production as global crude prices climb above $100 per barrel, with officials highlighting fresh gains and untapped potential in key oil fields.
Speaking at a press conference in Juba, Undersecretary Chol Deng Thon said increasing output remains a top priority for the government amid favourable market conditions.
He noted that rising oil prices have heightened the urgency to expand production, despite global disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East, including those involving Iran.
According to Thon, the ministry has continued to engage joint operating companies to sustain progress, even as logistical challenges affect global maritime operations.
He revealed a major breakthrough at the Al Nahal field in Paloch, Upper Nile State, operated by Dar Petroleum Operating Company.
“The Al Nahal W8 well is currently producing 5,440 barrels per day with a water cut of 0.5 per cent,” he said, describing the development as a significant achievement compared to the average water cut of 84.5 per cent recorded in most wells.
Thon explained that the output from the single well is substantial enough to generate one cargo shipment every four months, underscoring the field’s growing potential following recent drilling campaigns in Blocks 3 and 7.
He added that national production levels have already risen from 95,000 to 100,000 barrels per day in the export pipeline, marking a notable increase.
“This is the right time to scale up production and enable the country to fully benefit from its natural resources,” he said.
Also speaking, Ling Zongfa, President of DPOC, confirmed the progress, noting that drilling operations resumed in October and have since yielded strong results.
He disclosed that 16 wells have been drilled so far, with 12 already commissioned, adding that production performance has exceeded initial forecasts.
Zongfa attributed the success to the adoption of advanced technologies, intensive reservoir monitoring, and continued government support, expressing optimism about further gains in the coming months.
